As Bitcoin and Ethereum continue to hit record highs, the mining boom shows no signs of slowing down. For those interested in joining the mining community, understanding which graphics cards offer optimal mining performance is crucial. Recent benchmark tests by renowned hardware outlet Tom's Hardware provide valuable insights into NVIDIA and AMD high-end GPUs' Ethereum mining capabilities, efficiency, and power consumption.
Tested ETH Mining Performance Data for NVIDIA & AMD High-End GPUs
Test Platform Specifications:
- Processor: Intel i9-9900K
- Motherboard: MSI MEG Z390 Ace
- Memory: Corsair 2x16GB DDR4-3200 CL16
- Storage: XPG SX8200 Pro 2TB
- Power Supply: Seasonic Focus 850 Platinum
- Cooling: Corsair Hydro H150i Pro RGB
- Setup: OpenBenchTable
Note: This configuration isn’t optimized for mining rigs. For dedicated mining setups, prioritize power supply and cooling over expensive CPUs/RAM.
Key Findings:
Hashrate Performance
- NVIDIA RTX 3090 FE Tuned topped the list at 106.5 MH/s, followed by the standard RTX 3090 FE.
- AMD RX 6900 XT, 6800 XT, and 6800 averaged 64.6 MH/s.
Power Consumption
- RTX 3090 FE drew a staggering 359.3W, while RTX 3080 FE consumed 330.3W.
- AMD’s RX 6900 XT exceeded 300W, with the RX 6800 XT at 281.1W.
Mining Efficiency (MHps/w)
- RTX 3060 Ti FE Tuned led with 0.524 MHps/w, followed by RTX 3070 FE Tuned.
- AMD’s best performer, RX 6800 Tuned, ranked sixth.
Operating Temperatures
- AMD RX 6800 XT and 6900 XT exceeded 80°C, highlighting thermal challenges in mining scenarios.
Optimizing Your Mining Setup
For peak efficiency:
👉 Explore high-performance mining GPUs
- Prioritize cooling solutions to extend hardware lifespan.
- Fine-tune GPU settings (e.g., undervolting) to balance power and hash rates.
FAQ
Q: Which GPU offers the best ROI for ETH mining?
A: The RTX 3060 Ti FE Tuned provides the highest efficiency (0.524 MHps/w), making it ideal for cost-conscious miners.
Q: Why do AMD GPUs run hotter than NVIDIA’s?
A: AMD’s RDNA2 architecture typically generates more heat under sustained loads, requiring robust cooling.
Q: Can I use gaming PCs for mining?
A: Yes, but ensure adequate cooling and power capacity. Dedicated rigs optimize long-term profitability.
👉 Upgrade your mining rig with trusted hardware
Data Source: Tom’s Hardware